The Mercedes — Benz M275.950 is a 5,980 cc, twin — turbocharged V12 petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2013. It features a 60 — degree V12 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust, and sequential multi — port fuel injection. In standard tune, it delivers 368 kW (500 PS) and 800 Nm of torque, providing exceptional power and refinement for flagship grand tourers and luxury sedans.
Fitted exclusively to the W…
All production years 2006–2013 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Mercedes-Benz M275.950 is a 5,980 cc twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine designed for flagship luxury vehicles (2006–2013). It combines DOHC architecture with variable valve timing and twin-scroll turbochargers to deliver immense power and near-silent operation. Engineered to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances high performance with emissions control for global markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 5,980 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 98 RON minimum) | |
Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 82.6 mm × 93.0 mm | |
Power output | 368 kW (500 PS) @ 5,300 rpm | |
Torque | 800 Nm @ 2,000–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (ME-SFI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin-scroll turbochargers (one per cylinder bank), intercooled | |
Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary), non-interference design | |
Oil type | MB 229.5 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 268 kg |
The Mercedes-Benz M275.950 was used exclusively across Mercedes-Benz's W221 and R230 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-exhaust routing in the S-Class and revised engine mounts in the SL-Class-and from 2009 the updated fuel pump drive shafts were introduced, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M275.950's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear on pre-2009 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil intervals. Internal Mercedes-Benz quality reports from 2011 indicated a significant portion of pre-2009 engines required drive shaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures linked to EGR and oxygen sensor faults in high-mileage units. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel exacerbate drive shaft and turbocharger wear, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M275.950 is exceptionally refined and powerful, but pre-2009 models are prone to fuel pump drive shaft wear if oil changes are delayed. Later units (2009+) with reinforced couplings show improved durability. Regular use of MB 229.5 oil and 15,000 km service intervals significantly reduce failure risk. Overall, well-maintained examples exceed 150,000 km reliably, though maintenance costs are high due to complexity.
The most frequent issues are high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear (causing stalling), intake manifold gasket leaks (leading to vacuum faults), and valve cover oil seepage. Turbo wastegate actuator sticking and oxygen sensor degradation are also common. These are documented in Mercedes-Benz service bulletins and confirmed by dealer service records.
This 6.0L twin-turbo V12 was used exclusively in flagship models: the S-Class (W221 S600), SL-Class (R230 SL600), and CL-Class (C215 CL600). It was phased out in 2013 and replaced by the M279 V12 in most applications. No licensed external applications exist.
Limited tuning potential exists due to its twin-turbo design. ECU remaps can yield +30–50 kW by optimizing boost curves and fuel delivery, but gains are modest. Forced induction upgrades are rare due to complexity. Most owners prioritize smoothness and reliability over tuning, preserving the engine's effortless character.
Real-world consumption is approximately 18–24 L/100km (12–15 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can achieve ~14 L/100km (20 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 28 L/100km (10 mpg UK). Fuel economy varies significantly with driving style, typical for large twin-turbo V12 engines.
No. The M275.950 uses a non-interference valvetrain design. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact will not occur, preventing catastrophic internal damage. However, timing integrity is still essential for proper engine operation and emissions compliance.
Mercedes-Benz specifies 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting MB 229.5 standard. This low-ash formulation protects the fuel pump drive shaft and ensures proper turbocharger lubrication. Oil must be changed every 15,000 km or annually to prevent sludge and drive shaft wear. Using non-compliant oil voids long-term reliability.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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